As the world transitions towards becoming more sustainable, integrating electric vehicles (EVs) into your workplace isn’t just a trend.
It’s a strategic decision that brings benefits to your business, employees, and the environment.
In this blog, we delve into the best practices for EV charging stations, exploring essential considerations when embarking on this journey. Such as employee attraction, cost savings, and how Stark Charge can guide you on your EV journey.
Our guide to mastering best practices for Workplace EV charging stations
Best practices for EV charging stations
1. Carry out an employee survey
A crucial best practice for EV charging stations is to start with asking your employees.
Surveys are cheap and easy to run, giving you vital insights to understand their charging needs, preferred charging times, and expectations.
If you’re planning workplace EV charging, then you need to know where your people are on their individual EV journeys and what they expect from the business in terms of sustainability or Net Zero.
2. Estimate how much Charging infrastructure you need
If you’re unsure of the number of charge points to install, you can determine an approximate number based on employee demand, gathered from your survey.
If demand is low, that should not deter you. Your business will need to provide EV infrastructure for employees in the very near future so taking action now means you can take advantage of the grants available and set up your company for a Net Zero future.
Supply capacity can be an issue. This determines how much electricity you’re allowed to consume at your site and sometimes EV charging infrastructure can take you over your allowance.
If your electrical supply needs to be upgraded, integrating this project with your installer can be more cost and time efficient.
3. Planning permissions
Check if your workplace is in a listed building, and ensure you obtain permissions before installation. Similarly, if your parking bays are owned by a local authority or another third party landlord you may need to check with them that it’s okay to install charge points.
Chargers can be mounted onto walls or on poles in the ground so it’s important to know if there are any restrictions before you set a preference.
You may find that the choice of how the charger is installed is determined by the permissions in place. So, pole or wall-mounted chargers could be dictated by what the age of the building or the opinions of a third party owner.
4. Prioritise employee proximity and safety
Strategically position charge points close to employee parking to facilitate access. This helps encourage use of the chargers by employees, making them clear and visible.
Consider aspects like lighting for safe charging, particularly during early mornings and late nights.
5. Future-proof for expansion
With the rise of individuals driving an EV, you may have a surge of employees needing to charge at work soon. It’s important to consider how you can accommodate this in the future. Our Works team can assist with upgrading the electrical supply, making sure your EV charge points are to optimum standard for your employees
Interested? Speak with our EV Charging Experts about next steps.
Understand the benefits of workplace charging
Now is the best time ever to take advantage of the various schemes and grants available to save you money in the switch to EV charging at your workplace. It’s important to understand why workplace charging is beneficial to your business:
1. Environmental impact
By introducing workplace charging, you significantly reduce your carbon footprint, aligning with the sustainable development goals (SDGs).
2. Employee attraction and retention
This is a very appealing benefit for employees, especially due to the increasing number of individuals who are switching to driving an EV. Adding EV charging stations at your workplace can contribute to higher retention rates and provide you with a competitive edge.
3. Cost savings
EVs have lower operational and maintenance costs compared to traditional vehicles, resulting in long-term savings. The Workplace Charging Scheme grant is also available, which can save you up to £15,000. But be quick, this ends in March 2024!
So, how can Stark assist you?
Stark Charge offers an all-encompassing support system for your workplace EV charging:
1. In-house installers
Our dedicated in-house installers work across the UK, guaranteeing a seamless end-to-end service.
2. Electricity capacity upgrades
Our services include upgrading electricity capacity to support your EV charging infrastructure. Learn more about this here:
3. OCCP compliant
We are fully compliant with the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCCP), ensuring seamless connectivity.
4. Stark Charge portal
Our user-friendly portal centralises charge point management, including user access, tariff settings, and usage tracking.
5. 24/7 support
Count on our round-the-clock assistance to address any queries or concerns that arise.
6. Cutting-edge technology
Our selection of technologically advanced hardware ensures optimal charging performance and user experience.
7. Data analytics
Our analytics enable you to separate building data from EV data, providing valuable insights for informed decision-making.
As you venture into integrating electric vehicle charging stations into your workplace, remember that mastering these best practices for EV charging stations not only ensures smooth implementation but also sets the foundation for a more sustainable and forward-thinking environment. By involving your employees, prioritising their safety and convenience, and leveraging the expertise of Stark Charge, you’re shaping an environment that supports both your business goals and the global shift towards sustainability.
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